At Kimbolton, we celebrate Pride Month to show that everyone deserves to feel accepted, valued, and safe. It is an opportunity to learn about LGBTQ+ history, celebrate diversity and encourage kindness and respect for all members of our community.
Earlier this month, Mr Pithers lead a Citizenship talk for the Lower Sixth pupils entitled ‘What’s the Point of Pride? Through a combination of historical examples, global statistics and personal experiences, he explored why Pride remains important today.
The presentation highlighted the history of LGBT+ rights, including the persecution of gay people in the past, the impact of laws such as Section 28 in the UK, and the ongoing challenges faced by LGBT+ people around the world. Listeners learned that while significant progress has been made, many countries still criminalise same-sex relationships and discrimination continues to affect people’s lives.
Mr Pithers also shared personal experiences of homophobic bullying, prejudice and the pressure many LGBT+ people feel to hide their identity. These stories demonstrated the lasting impact that words, attitudes and everyday actions can have on others.
A key message of the assembly was that everyone has the power to make a positive difference. Pupils were encouraged to think carefully about the language they use, to challenge discrimination when they encounter it and to help create an environment where all people feel accepted and valued.
The talk concluded with a reminder that understanding different experiences, showing respect and treating others with kindness can have a profound impact on those around us. Pride, it was suggested, is not only about celebration but also about visibility, inclusion and the continuing pursuit of equality.
Last week, there was a whole school assembly to mark the occasion, and rainbow day on Friday where pupils were invited to add something colourful or rainbow themed to their uniform. Friday lunchtime was filled with pride related activities including face painting, stickers, a pride gallery and a chance to win a Pride wristband.
Our Pride flag was also flying proudly over Kimbolton Castle all week!
A time to remember that everyone belongs here at Kimbolton.
